Artificial intelligence: Ethical considerations in emerging sports entertainment technology

By Matt Stagg, media and entertainment innovation specialist.

In the dynamic sphere of sports technology and entertainment, the advent of cutting edge innovations like artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and deepfake technology has ushered in a new era of immersive experiences and customised content. This technological revolution, while bringing unprecedented opportunities for engagement and personalisation, also poses significant ethical challenges.

The application of these technologies within sports entertainment necessitates a thoughtful examination of their societal impact, privacy issues, and the potential risks they harbour.

Privacy and data collection stand at the forefront of ethical concerns. As sports franchises and broadcasters strive to deliver personalised content, they accumulate extensive data on fans’ preferences, behaviours, and interactions. This scenario raises critical questions about the scope of data collection, its utilisation, who has access, and how fans’ consent is obtained and managed. The ethical dilemma lies in balancing the enhancement of fan experiences through personalisation against the imperative to protect individual privacy and ensure data security.

Personalised algos

The use of personalisation algorithms, aimed at tailoring content to individual tastes, introduces the risk of creating echo chambers. While these algorithms can significantly improve fan engagement by aligning content with individual preferences, they may also limit exposure to diverse viewpoints, potentially reinforcing pre-existing biases. Ethically developing these technologies requires a design philosophy that not only personalises content but also promotes a diversity of perspectives and broadens fans’ exposure to different viewpoints.

Deepfake technology, with its ability to produce highly realistic and convincing synthetic audio and video content, represents a double-edged sword in sports entertainment. Its potential for creative applications is vast, from reimagining historical sports matchups to creating personalised fan experiences.

However, the technology also carries a significant risk of spreading misinformation, manipulating public opinion, and harming reputations. The ethical deployment of deepfake technology hinges on finding a balance that encourages innovation while putting in place robust safeguards against its misuse.

Threat of displacement

The impact of automation and AI on employment within the sports entertainment sector is another pressing concern. As AI-driven technologies, including performance analytics and automated content creation, become more prevalent, traditional roles within the industry face the threat of displacement. The ethical response involves integrating new technologies in ways that complement human skills, alongside providing support and retraining opportunities for those whose jobs may be affected.

Access and inclusivity emerge as critical ethical considerations in the deployment of advanced technologies like VR and AR in sports entertainment. These technologies offer fans immersive and engaging ways to experience sporting events, yet not all fans have the means or capability to access these innovations. An ethical approach to development considers the affordability of these technologies, designs for accessibility, and ensures content diversity that mirrors the wide array of fan experiences and perspectives.

Furthermore, the involvement of AI and machine learning in content creation complicates the ethical landscape, raising questions about originality, copyright, and the essence of human creativity in sports narratives. As AI takes on a more significant role in the creative process, the industry must navigate the complexities surrounding the rights to AI-generated content, acknowledging AI’s contributions to creativity while addressing the implications for creators and intellectual property rights.

Shaping cultural norms

The broader societal impact of sports entertainment technologies extends to shaping cultural norms, influencing behaviour, and affecting mental health. Those responsible for deploying these technologies bear the duty to ensure that their innovations contribute positively to society, steering clear of perpetuating stereotypes, promoting violence, or fostering addictive behaviours.

Confronting the ethical challenges associated with sports technology and entertainment calls for a comprehensive strategy that includes industry standards, regulatory frameworks, ethical guidelines, and ongoing dialogue among developers, fans, policymakers, and ethicists. This dialogue is crucial to creating an environment where technological advancements not only address potential risks but also enhance societal well-being, foster inclusivity, and promote a diverse and positive sports culture.

As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of sports technology and entertainment, addressing these ethical issues is imperative. The challenge lies in leveraging the potential of these technologies to enrich the fan experience while ensuring their development and application are ethically grounded.

By achieving this balance, the industry can avoid the pitfalls associated with these advancements and pave the way toward a future where sports technology serves as a force for good, enhancing the human experience in ways that are inclusive, diverse, and reflective of our shared values in sportsmanship and community.